Pregnant and new mothers should watch for symptoms like leg swelling or pain and seek timely medical help. Early diagnosis and simple preventive measures can significantly reduce complications
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: File pic
Mumbai doctors are seeing more women report Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) cases during and after pregnancy.
Pregnant and new mothers should watch for symptoms like leg swelling or pain and seek timely medical help. Early diagnosis and simple preventive measures can significantly reduce complications.
With increasing awareness about maternal health, it is necessary to pay attention to another silent yet dangerous condition, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). The condition occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins, usually in the legs, which can become life-threatening if the clot travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Pregnancy naturally increases the risk because of hormonal changes, reduced mobility, and pressure on veins from the growing uterus. Timely intervention is key to managing this condition.
DVT is a condition where blood thickens and forms clots in the deep veins, blocking normal blood flow. “During pregnancy, the body’s clotting tendency increases to prevent bleeding during childbirth, but this also raises the risk of abnormal clot formation. Other factors like long periods of sitting, cesarean delivery, obesity, and dehydration further contribute to DVT risk. The symptoms are swelling in one leg, pain or tenderness in the calf or thigh, and warmth or redness over the affected area. Pregnant and postpartum women should be alert to symptoms like swelling, pain, or heaviness in the legs. DVT is preventable if recognized early, and prompt medical evaluation can save lives,” said Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar.
Dr Surabhi further added, “DVT is diagnosed through Doppler ultrasound, which helps detect clots in the deep veins. Management involves blood-thinning medications prescribed under medical supervision. In pregnancy, doctors tailor treatment carefully to ensure both the mother's and the baby’s safety. To prevent this condition, stay active with light walking or prenatal exercises. Avoid sitting for long periods; stretch legs frequently. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Wear compression stockings if advised by your doctor. Report any leg pain or swelling immediately. While pregnancy brings joy, it also demands careful attention to maternal health. Awareness of DVT and timely medical guidance can prevent serious complications, ensuring a safe journey to motherhood and recovery after delivery.”
Dr. Anagha Chhatrapati, senior consultant Gynecologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai, explains, "Pregnant women are not only at risk of hypertension, gestational diabetes, but also DVT. There is a higher risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in pregnant women as the body becomes more prone to clotting to prevent bleeding during childbirth. In pregnant women, reduced mobility, pressure from the growing uterus on leg veins, and hormonal changes further slow blood flow, raising the chances of DVT. The symptoms seen in women are leg swelling, warmth, redness, and persistent pain, usually in one leg. Early management consists of prompt medical evaluation, Doppler scans, and safe anticoagulant medicines to be able to help women stay healthy and mobile. Staying active, hydrating well, and avoiding long periods of sitting are simple steps recommended for pregnant."
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
